DIFFER

The Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research (DIFFER) performs leading fundamental research on materials, processes, and systems for a global sustainable energy infrastructure. We work in close partnership with (inter)national academia and industry. Our user facilities are open to industry and university researchers. As an institute of the Dutch Research Council (NWO) DIFFER plays a key role in fundamental research for the energy transition.

We use a multidisciplinary approach applicable on two key areas, solar fuels for the conversion and storage of renewable energy and nuclear fusion – as a clean source of energy.

Differ is looking for a Ion Beam Analysis specialist F/M/X

DIFFER’s ion beam facility (IBF) features a 3.5 MV Singletron and four beamlines that support four world-unique experiments. Our MAGNUM PSI is a linear plasma device with the world's highest plasma flux. The Upgraded Pilot PSI (UPP) is the only device allowing simultaneous plasma exposure and ion beam analysis (IBA). DICE enables simultaneous ion-irradiation and salt-corrosion experiments and IBA-REACTOR allows for dynamic observation of electrolysis processes. The IBF usage is rapidly growing, with operational hours increasing from 500 in 2019 to 3500 in 2025. Our diverse user base spans fusion, electrochemistry, aerospace, optics, fission, and more.

We are seeking a highly skilled Ion Beam Analysis Specialist to join our dynamic team. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in the characterization and analysis of materials using advanced ion beam techniques.

Position and requirements

Responsibilities

Perform IBA measurements and analysis in a variety of fields and applications
Occasionally measure nuclear cross-sections
Assist users with IBA measurements, particularly at operando measurements at UPP and IBA-REACTOR
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design and conduct experiments
Train users in IBA physics, data acquisition and analysis
Maintain order of IBA labs (chambers, detectors, lab books, etc.)
Prepare technical reports, scientific papers, and presentations
Occasionally operate the accelerator

Requirements

Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Physics, Materials Science, or a related field
Proven experience in ion beam techniques
Proficiency in using data analysis software (NDF is strongly preferred or MultiSIMNRA)
Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment
Creative thinking, problem solving skills
Knowledge of detectors, signal processing and data-acquisition.
Quick learning
Self-driven

Optional Requirements

Familiarity with thin film analysis and surface modification techniques
Knowledge of materials properties and behavior under ion irradiation
Experience or interest in maintaining and troubleshooting ion beam systems
Python and IDL programming

Terms and conditions

This position is for 1 FTE, will be for a period of 4 years and is graded in pay scale 10. The position will be based at DIFFER (www.differ.nl) and the working location will be at TU Eindhoven. When fulfilling a position at DIFFER, you will have an employee status at NWO. You can participate in all the employee benefits NWO offers. We have a number of regulations that support employees in finding a good work-life balance. At DIFFER we believe that a workforce diverse in gender, age and cultural background is key to performing excellent research. We therefore strongly encourage everyone to apply. More information on working at NWO can be found at the NWO website (https://www.nwo-i.nl/en/working-at-nwo-i/jobsatnwoi/)